Here to help, even years after service…

Junior Technician Owen Lawrence joined the RAF at 18 in 1988 and trained at RAF Locking as a radar and communications mechanic. His postings included Portreith, Benbecula and Boulmer, before he specialised in tactical deployments with 1ACC. Owen left the RAF in 2001 and worked in a similar role as a civilian.

In 2010, Owen developed a serious chest infection, which led to extensive hospital tests. He was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease, a degenerative and hugely debilitating condition for which there is no cure. This meant that Owen was confined to a wheelchair for the remainder of his life.

With his wife Karen living in the family home in York and Owen having to be based in Cardiff because of his treatment, the couple spent a long and difficult time apart.

Since his diagnosis, the RAF Association had been supporting both Owen and Karen with a range of complicated issues and the RAF Association’s Area Welfare team based at RAF Linton-on-Ouse had been instrumental in co-ordinating the support that they needed.

Owen’s own RAF Association branch (TCW & 90 SU) have also provided great support, even facilitating a visit to his old unit at RAF Leeming.

In return, Owen and Karen played a huge part in helping to fundraise for the RAF Association and have helped to support further welfare projects.

On Thursday 22 March 2012 Owen sadly lost his battle with Motor Neurone Disease. We are deeply honored to have had the opportunity to work with such inspirational people as Owen and Karen and our thoughts are with Karen and the family as they struggle through this very difficult time. The RAF Association stands ready to support Karen as she starts to rebuild her life.